How to Maintain a Pop-up Canvas

Pop-up camper canvas, while a durable material, requires several basic maintenance steps to increase the life of the canvas and maintain a safe level of air quality inside the camper. The canvas is threatened when open and closed because the elements and forces of nature are difficult to contain. You'll need to clean and properly store the canvas before and after each camping trip.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft-bristle brush
  • Hose
  • Water
  • Dry storage
  • Tarps
  • Iron patches
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush the opened canvas with a soft-bristle brush to remove dirt and debris after each trip. Remove the dirt before storing so it doesn't work deeper into the fabric.

    • 2

      Spray the exterior with fresh water and a garden hose. Leave the camper open until the canvas is completely dry.

    • 3

      Close the camper with the dry canvas and store in a covered parking space. Cover the top of the camper with tarps if a storage space is not available. You need to prevent moisture from entering through breaks in the seals and other openings while the camper is stored.

    • 4

      Open the camper once a week and check the canvas for moisture. Dry the canvas and adjust the storage plan to prevent more moisture from entering during storage.

    • 5

      Iron canvas patches over any holes in the material immediately after detection. Holes grow quickly and waiting may ruin the canvas. Patches are cheap and easy to apply.

    • 6

      Open the camper several days before each camping trip to ensure the canvas is in good shape. Replace the canvas if large amounts of mold and mildew are present.